Heat pumps are economical to run and don’t use fossil fuels. But, they’re not the perfect solution for every home. Home technology expert Ross Trethewey teaches host Kevin O’Connor what to know about these appliances before making the switch.
Heat Pumps Are All the Rage
Heat pumps are typically economical to run (comparable to a gas furnace and much more efficient). Many tax credits and rebates are also available, so many homeowners are interested in upgrading their existing heating systems to ones powered by heat pumps. But there are a few things to know.
They’re Best for Ducted Homes
Heat pumps are better for ducted homes, such as those with forced hot air or central air conditioning systems. These systems may be adapted to a heat pump, whereas a home with baseboard or electric heat is better suited for mini-split units due to their lack of ductwork.
It’s Low Temperature Heat
Heat pumps don’t create a ton of heat. A gas or oil-fed furnace might produce air temperatures of 150 degrees or more. However, with a heat pump, air might only reach temperatures around 100 degrees. But, because these units produce cooler air, they require a larger volume.
Ductwork Needs
The heat pump needs to produce a large volume because the air is cooler than gas or oil-fed furnaces. This means the ductwork needs to be large enough to accommodate the volume, and it must also be well-insulated and air-tight. Otherwise, the heat pump might have to work too hard to heat the area, reducing efficiency and losing heat as it travels through leaky or uninsulated ductwork.
Climates Matter Too
Climates matter. Those in the southern part of the US are in cooling-dominant zones, which makes the low-temperature heat pumps a great solution. However, in heating-dominant zones in the northern US, heat pump systems need to be designed carefully to ensure they can do their jobs.
It’s Not a DIY-able Project
Homeowners should always consult a trained expert when choosing a heat pump for their home. The heat pump has to be sized correctly for the ductwork, climate, and home size to work efficiently. HVAC experts understand this and can help homeowners find the ideal solution—or steer them away from heat pumps in general.
Resources
Special thanks to The Energy Conservatory (TEC) for providing additional information.